Simply put, Web3 is the next evolution of the internet—built on decentralization, transparency, and user control. Unlike Web2, where big corporations control the platforms, Web3 allows businesses to own their data, interact directly with customers, and access new funding opportunities without relying on traditional systems.
In this post, we‘ll explore how Web3 use cases can help your business grow, fundraise, and build lasting relationships with your audience. Let’s explore how Web3 can help your business shine brighter than ever!
Top 10 web3 use cases
Here are 10 Web3 use cases that can help your business grow, raise capital, and build stronger connections with customers.
1. Raise capital with decentralized finance (DeFi)
DeFi is changing how businesses raise capital by removing traditional financial middlemen. This means small businesses and startups can access funds directly.
With DeFi, businesses can launch token sales, Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), or Security Token Offerings (STOs) to raise money from investors without banks or venture capital. This cuts down on transaction costs and speeds up the fundraising process.
DeFi also opens up global investment opportunities, allowing businesses to tap into a worldwide pool of investors and make financial inclusion easier.
Aavegotchi, a blockchain gaming project, used DeFi to raise money by selling GHST tokens directly to their community. This gave them the funds to grow while staying independent, showing how startups can use DeFi to fund and scale their business.
2. Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) for exclusive offers
NFTs provide proof of ownership and uniqueness, making them valuable digital assets. Unlike Web2, where digital content can be easily copied, NFTs web3 use cases authenticate originality.
Businesses can raise funds by selling limited-edition NFTs tied to exclusive memberships or product access. Furthermore, you can also offer NFT-based loyalty programs, giving customers special perks. NFTs help to create branded digital collectibles that customers can buy, trade, or showcase.
One of the notable implementation of NFTs in business is the Odyssey program of Starbucks. Starbucks launched that NFT-based loyalty program on 15/3/2024, offering customers rewards and exclusive experiences. This can potentially to boost customer engagement and loyalty to the brand.
3. Play-to-earn (P2E) gaming for customer engagement
Unlike regular Web2 games, where companies make all the money, Web3 games give players rewards for playing. Players can earn digital items, like tokens or NFTs, as they enjoy the game. This makes the experience more fun and keeps players engaged because they feel like they own a part of the game.
For small enterprises, you can develop branded P2E games where customers earn rewards for interacting with your brand, such as using gaming mechanics to encourage participation, rewarding customers with NFTs or tokens. Another time-saving and safer option is that partner with existing Web3 games to offer branded in-game assets but still yield positive effect.
Axie Infinity pioneered P2E, allowing users to earn cryptocurrency while playing. Therefore, applying this to business marketing strategy can help to transform the way customers engage make an impact on how customer engage to the company.
4. Decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) for decision-making
One of the most unique web3 use cases, DAOs, allow communities to make decisions together in different areas. They make crowdfunding easier by helping projects raise money quickly and fairly. DAOs also help with investing by pooling money for new blockchain projects, where everyone gets a say in what to fund. They give people a voice in governance, allowing members to vote on important decisions in crypto and other projects.
SMEs and startups can use DAOs to raise money from people worldwide, cut down on costs, and let their community help make decisions. DAOs also help build trust with their clear, open way of working.
FlamingoDAO enables members to pool resources and vote on NFT investments, resulting in high-value acquisitions like CryptoPunks and Bored Apes, boosting the portfolio’s value and offering shared profits.
5. Supply chain transparency for ethical sourcing
Web3 makes supply chains more transparent by using blockchain to track products from start to finish. Everyone involved, from suppliers to customers, can see every step in the process, ensuring products are authentic and trustworthy.
This tech helps businesses reduce fraud, build trust, and stay compliant, making the supply chain more reliable and easy to follow for everyone.Unlike Web2 databases, blockchain records cannot be altered.
SMEs in fashion, food or medicine industry can better prove the authenticity and ethical sourcing of products within the production process. Build customer trust with transparent supply chain tracking and increase operating efficiency.
VeChain has successfully uses Web3 to make supply chains more transparent by helping businesses track products and verify their authenticity. This leads to more efficient operations, less fraud, and a focus on sustainability in industries like luxury goods and food safety.
6. Decentralized identity (DID) for secure customer verification
Unlike Web2 systems that store sensitive customer data in centralized databases prone to breaches, Web3 allows users to control their personal information. With DIDs, you can prove who you are securely, only sharing the information you choose.
Businesses and startups can utilize this to offer secure, password-free login systems to improve customer experience. Reduce fraud by verifying customer identities on the blockchain. Comply with privacy regulations without storing sensitive user data.
For example, Microsoft’s ION enables decentralized identity verification, reducing reliance on centralized data storage.
7. Metaverse & virtual worlds for digital business expansion
Different from traditional e-commerce or physical stores, Web3 enables businesses to operate in immersive digital spaces.
Virtual Worlds can be a great tool for businesses to create marketing campaign is a completely new way. Open virtual storefronts or showrooms in metaverse platforms like Decentraland or The Sandbox. Host virtual events, trade shows, or brand experiences. Sell digital fashion, collectibles, or exclusive metaverse memberships.
Nike teamed up with Decentraland for a virtual sneaker drop, where they released a limited edition NFT sneaker collection. Users visited a virtual Nike store to buy the sneakers using cryptocurrency. The event created a buzz, with lots of people excited to get their hands on these exclusive digital sneakers, helping Nike increase engagement and visibility in the Metaverse.
8. Web3 healthcare for efficient record management
Unlike Web2’s siloed healthcare systems, Web3 provides secure, decentralized patient records, reducing paperwork and inefficiencies. Given that, healthcare providers can offer blockchain-based health record storage, improving data security.
In addition, streamline insurance claims and medical history verification. Businesses can also enable patients to control their health data access.
For example, MedBlockChain provides blockchain-powered health records that ensure privacy and fast access.
9. Web3 social media for brand building
Web 3.0 is changing social media by making it more decentralized, giving users control. Unlike Web2 platforms that monetize user data and control content visibility, Web3 use cases related to social media lets businesses own their audience and revenue.
Platforms like Mastodon are already decentralized, and others are using NFTs for digital ownership. New rules will be needed to handle issues like privacy and misinformation, while apps like Horizon Worlds and Zepeto are exploring these new social experiences in the metaverse.
This open new opportunities in building a loyal community without platform restrictions for businesses. Monetize content through tokenized engagement and reward customers with crypto incentives for participation.
Lens Protocol enables decentralized social media, allowing businesses to build communities without censorship.
10. Tokenized real estate for accessible investments
Unlike traditional real estate, which requires large capital and slow transactions, tokenized real estate splits properties into digital shares for easy investment.
For small business with low capital, you can invest in fractional real estate without large upfront costs. Otherwise, tokenize properties to sell shares to multiple investors. Especially, this streamline transactions, reducing fees and paperwork
RealT has apply this to allows users to buy tokenized real estate, making investment more accessible.
Why SMEs and startups should jump on the web3?
Web3 opens up exciting new opportunities for small businesses and startups. It offers more control, better security, and the chance to reach a wider audience through decentralized platforms.
With Web3, businesses can create communities, sell digital goods, and engage with customers in fresh, innovative ways. Plus, it allows for transparent transactions, lower fees, and direct ownership of data.
As more people and companies move toward decentralized solutions, adopting Web3 could help your business stay ahead of the competition and thrive in a new digital era.
Conclusion
Web3 isn’t just a trend—it’s a game-changer for SMEs and startups looking to innovate, fundraise, and build stronger customer relationships. Whether through DeFi, NFTs, DAOs, or the metaverse, businesses can harness the power of Web3 to unlock new opportunities. Now is the time to explore how these Web3 use cases can fit into your business strategy and stay ahead in the digital age.
